When studying in the U.S., it’s common to hear the term “accreditation.” You know that it’s an important aspect to consider when choosing a school or program, but what does it really mean and why is it so important?
What Is Accreditation?
Accreditation is a process that Higher Education Institutions go through to show that they meet specific educational standards. The process is completed by external private or non-government organizations, ensuring that any accreditation given is unbiased.
Why Is Accreditation Important?
Accreditation is essential when choosing an institution for several reasons. The first is that it means the institution is holding up to the highest standards, ensuring you get a quality education.
Another reason it’s important is that it can be difficult to get financial aid to attend an institution that isn’t accredited. Additionally, many employers will not accept degrees and certifications from non-accredited institutions. This can be hard to deal with after you’ve paid a great deal of money to complete an education program.
Types of Accreditation
There are different types of accreditation that schools might qualify for. The main ones include national, regional, and specialized. Although a school might only have regional accreditation as a whole, individual courses can be nationally accredited. Additionally, different courses and degree programs are often accredited by different organizations.
For example, Grand Canyon University accreditation is regional and awarded by the Higher Learning Commission. However, Grand Canyon University accreditation professionals for individual programs include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education, the Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs, and others.
Accreditation is an essential component when choosing your higher education institution. It’s always best to consider where you would like to work after your schooling, determine what type of accreditation they look for, and be sure to attend a school that meets those requirements.
